Delta State University has received $1,262,219 from the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act through the U.S. Department of Education to assist students during the COVID-19 pandemic. The money will go directly to current DSU students.

“DSU is grateful for this federal funding that will be very helpful to many of our students whose on-campus matriculation was abruptly interrupted,” said Dr. Vernell Bennett-Fairs, vice president for student affairs. “Students will receive information about the qualification criteria and a link to the grant application via their Okramail accounts. We encourage all who qualify to apply.”

Delta State has completed the CARES Act/Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund paperwork to receive a second, similar infusion from the U.S. Department of Education for institutional needs.

“We anticipate receiving an additional $1,262,218 soon,” said Heather Kovarcik Miller, director of the Office of Institutional Grants. “Delta State will use this round of funding per the Department of Education federal guidelines.”

The CARES Act was signed into law on March 27, 2020, and is the third and largest major legislative initiative to address COVID-19.